You could be using modelling as a way to break into the acting business, or maybe you’re trying to get straight into it. Either way, follow Models Direct’s top tips to doing the best you can at acting auditions and castings.
• Your attitude should be confident and professional. You want to be friendly and pleasant to the other actors or actresses who are auditioning, but don’t try to charm the casting directors – they need to know that you are professional and easy to work with.
• When you get to the audition acknowledge everyone there but then remain focused on why you’re there.
• It’s your performance that is important. Make sure you thoroughly know and have practised any monologues. What you decide to perform will depend on what type of production you’re auditioning for, but as a general rule it’s good to have a few monologues that you know extremely well. These should vary in genre and style to show how versatile your acting skills are. For example, you could have a funny piece, a sad piece, a piece of Shakespeare and a modern piece. These could be used in auditions for years, as long as you continue to practice and keep them fresh and original.
• Find out as much information as possible about the audition. For example, the type of role you would be portraying, the director, the production company and the writer. This knowledge will not also help with what audition piece you choose but with what to wear and shows you’re dedicated to the part.
• Make sure you know exactly where the audition is taking place and check how long it takes to get there, allowing for unforeseen circumstances such as traffic, public transport delays and getting lost! Leave with plenty of time and try to arrive ten to fifteen minutes before the audition starts.
• You want to demonstrate that you are good at taking direction, so listen carefully and take on board anything the person holding the audition is saying. Of course you should ask questions if you’re unsure of something, but bear in mind that this takes up valuable time and you may come across as awkward.
• When you’ve finished your audition be polite, say thank you and leave rather than hanging around to make small talk or asking how you did. Casting directors will be seeing lots of people and so may come across as blunt or rude, especially at the end of a long day!
• Bring a headshot and your CV with you. If it’s an open audition and you miss your time slot as a result of being too far back in the queue, these may be collected for future reference.
About Models Direct
Models Direct is a talent and model agency for female models, male models, teen models, child models and baby models for advertising, fashion, film, TV, promotional and photographic modelling work. We are a Government-regulated Model Employment Agency… not an online showcase, we’re the real thing!
If you think you, or perhaps your partner, child, baby or pet, might be a suitable model for us to put forward for selection to appear in films, TV, fashion, promotions, advertisements and photographic modelling, please visit the website or call us on +44 (0)871 224 6000. Modelling can be great fun & often rewarding as a part time hobby.
You can also find out more by visiting the blog or by following Models Direct on Twitter.